Used bus(ES) RFP

Bridgman Public Schools (BPS) in Berrien County, Michigan, has issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the procurement of one or two used school buses. The district is specifically seeking 2020 or newer Blue Bird T3FE All American diesel buses, with an 88-passenger model capacity and no more than 50,000 miles. The technical specifications are comprehensive, requiring a Cummins 240 HP diesel engine, Allison 2500 PTS transmission, air brakes, heated remote-controlled mirrors, and a post-trip student reminder system. The RFP mandates that buses must comply with Michigan's Pupil Transportation Act and undergo inspection by the Michigan State Police before final acceptance. Critical procurement dates include a bid submission deadline of April 7, 2025, with required bus delivery before June 30, 2025, to the BPS bus garage located at 9964 Gast Road in Bridgman, Michigan. Vendors are expected to provide detailed specifications, warranty information, and delivery timelines, with potential price incentives for purchasing multiple buses.

The procurement opportunity appears open to all qualified vendors, with no specific set-aside designations or restrictions noted in the documentation. Bidders must complete several mandatory compliance forms, including a familial disclosure statement, Iran Economic Sanctions Act compliance form, a debarment certification, and a conflict of interest disclosure. The school district reserves the right to reject any or all bids and select the proposal that best serves its interests. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly stated, vendors are encouraged to provide competitive pricing, with potential discounts for multiple bus purchases. The district will require vendors to provide a clean, non-encumbered title and transferable manufacturer warranties. Notably, BPS is exempt from sales and service taxes, which may impact the overall procurement economics. The RFP suggests flexibility in the procurement, allowing vendors to bid on either one or two buses, which could attract a broader range of potential suppliers.